Armed Forces Day 27 June 2026 - Event Funding

Applications close on 31 March 2026

Grant Applications for 2026 AFD Events Are Now OPEN: Applications for grants to support Armed Forces Day (AFD) events in 2026 are currently open and will close on 31 March 2026.

The Ministry of Defence provides grants to assist with the organisation of Armed Forces Day events. Depending on the event's size and format, grants can be valued at up to £10,000. This funding is match-funded and disbursed post-event upon the submission and approval of receipts and expenditures. Consequently, a Ministry of Defence grant could cover up to half of the total event cost, provided the eligibility criteria are met. For example, if the total cost of the event is £7,000, the Defence could contribute up to £3,500 if all criteria are satisfied.

Expenditures Not Covered by Ministry of Defence Funding

Ministry of Defence funding cannot be utilised for:

• Hospitality expenses, including food, drinks, sundries, and accommodation

• Military assets, such as displays, equipment, or military vehicles

• Entertainment, including equipment, bands, singers, musicians, films, or other forms of entertainment

• Transportation and accommodation for guests or organisers to and from the event

• VAT

  
  

Eligible Expenditures for Ministry of Defence Funding

Ministry of Defence funding can be allocated for:

• Road closures necessary for hosting the event, including for parades and marches

• Armed Forces Day branded decorations, flags, and banners (please consider using sustainable options and avoid single-use plastics, where possible)

• Local or national advertisements in newspapers, social media, or radio to promote the event

• Marshalling, security, and first aid arrangements for the event

• Event insurance

• PA and communication systems, such as handheld radios or other communication devices for event organisers.

Visit the website for more details:

Go to https://www.armedforcesday.org.uk/

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  A member of the Parachute Regiment Display Team gracefully descends onto Bournemouth beach, proudly displaying a large Union Jack flag against a serene sky and sea backdrop. Photo Credit: D Sippitt